I volunteered to present a short message on “Peace” for an upcoming Sunday Service. To some people, this topic is not a “showstopper”; certainly we will hear about it throughout the holiday season. That’s my challenge: How can I present “Peace” in a new way, as a compelling, memorable message?
I always like to “google” topics to see what information, perspectives and practical demonstrations are available. Of course, Wikipedia leads the search with definitions. Continuing to peruse the Google list, I found a site offering an International Creed for Peace (www.internationalcreedforpeace.co.uk ). The Creed has two parts. The first part asserts independence: I am independent. I am free. I am just. The second part asks for an action in response to that independence: I have a duty to choose my beliefs. I have a duty to be alive. I have a duty to respect others.
These parts of the Creed begin as individual thoughts that become actions. What we think and believe, we then become. Part of our duty in respecting others is to do what we can to create peace for them. This may take the conventional form of sharing food and clothing or contributing to a cause. We could get more creative: holding their hands, smiling, listening, telling stories or spending time in conversation. In doing so, we open ourselves, inviting laughter, joy, warm and fuzzy feelings and genuine goodwill. By creating peace each day for someone else, our own peace will grow exponentially.
Long story, short: How will you help someone to experience peace today?
